Cougars are fascinating creatures and most students are naturally interested in learning about them. This article describes the design and implementation of the Cougar Conservation Project (CCP), a problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum that provided students and community members from a rural area in Washington State with valuable interdisciplinary learning experiences that integrate science, art, writing, and presentation skills. By participating in authentic science, students may feel their learning is more relevant and meaningful to their own lives within the larger community.